Introduction to Skateboarding Slang
Skateboarding is not just a sport; it’s a culture with a rich lexicon that communicates not only technical maneuvers but also emotions, lifestyle, and identity. One of the intriguing aspects of this culture is its unique slang, with terms that may baffle outsiders but resonate deeply with the skating community. From tricks to style, language plays an essential role in how skaters express themselves. One phrase that stands out is “going backward.” This article aims to explore this phrase, its implications in the skateboarding community, and its various dimensions.
What Does “Going Backward” Mean?
In skateboarding, the term “going backward” often refers to riding a skateboard in the fakie stance. In simpler terms, it describes a skater who is riding with their back foot at the tail of the board, while their front foot is towards the nose. Although this might seem like a trivial adjustment, it opens up a myriad of tricks and styles that can elevate a skateboarder’s riding skills.
Understanding Fakie Riding
Fakie riding is a fundamental skill in skateboarding, and every skater eventually learns to master it. It provides a new perspective and enables the skater to perform tricks that would be impossible while riding regular or goofy. Here are a few key points about fakie riding:
- Stability: Skating fakie alters the center of gravity, which can enhance balance when performing certain tricks.
- Tricks: Fakie can be integrated into various tricks such as fakie flips, fakie big spins, and more.
- Dynamics: It requires skaters to utilize different muscles, contributing to improved overall skateboarding skills.
Fakie Tricks and Their Cultural Significance
The fakie stance is not just a technique; it’s also part of skateboarding’s evolving culture. The following are popular tricks performed in a fakie stance:
- Fakie Assorted Slides: A variation of slides where skaters balance on the back foot.
- Fakie Smith Grind: A trick that combines fakie riding and grinds on the ledge.
- Fakie 360 Flip: One of the most iconic tricks in skateboarding performed in fakie.
Mastering these tricks often establishes a skater’s prowess within the community, reinforcing their identity and style.
Case Studies: Renowned Skaters and Their Fakie Skills
Considering individual skaters can be enlightening. Many prominent figures in skateboarding have not only mastered going backward but have also innovated within that technique. For instance:
- Tony Hawk: Known for his vert ramp tricks, Hawk has effectively incorporated fakie maneuvers, elevating the complexity of his performances.
- Nyjah Huston: The professional skater has a reputation for combining speed and tricks in the fakie stance, demonstrating grit and creativity.
- Rodney Mullen: Often referred to as the godfather of street skating, Mullen has innovated countless tricks, many involving fakie stances that paved the way for modern skateboarding.
Statistics on Fakie Riding in Competitive Skateboarding
According to the most recent skateboarding competitions, a significant percentage of judges seek skaters who can seamlessly incorporate fakie tricks into their runs. In fact:
- ~60% of competitive skateboarding runs include at least two or more fakie tricks.
- Skaters who can combine fakie tricks with other styles tend to score 30% higher than those who only skate in one stance.
This data emphasizes not just the importance of fakie riding but also its crucial place in competitive settings.
Conclusion: The Evolution of Skating Language
As skateboarding continues to evolve, so does its language. Terms like going backward or fakie do not merely describe actions but reveal intrinsic values shared by the skating community. These phrases embody an attitude of creativity, resilience, and continual growth. As new generations of skaters emerge, they contribute to the ongoing dialogue, leading to new slang terms, thus ensuring that the culture remains vibrant and relevant.
Further Learning Resources
For those interested in further developing their understanding of skater slang and skills, consider checking out:
- Online skateboarding forums and communities.
- Videos of skating tutorials focused on fakie riding.
- Books on the history and techniques of skateboarding.
